King Kyote will represent Maine in NBC’s “American Song Contest.” Photo by Jukebooth Productions

Portland singer-songwriter King Kyote will represent Maine on NBC’s new, live music competition, “American Song Contest,” featuring artists from around the country.

The show, which starts airing on March 21 at 8 p.m. and will be hosted by Snoop Dogg and Kelly Clarkson, is a partnership between the network and Atlantic Records.

“American Song Contest” will feature a total of 56 artists from the 50 states, five U.S. territories and Washington, D.C., who will be competing to win the country’s vote for the best hit song. Competitors range from undiscovered artists and rising stars to former hitmakers, such Jewel, Sisqo and Michael Bolton.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bvte_4_-XJ0

The season is eight episodes, airing Mondays. NBC hasn’t said which will feature King Kyote, whose real name is Jon King and who grew up in York. During each week of the competition, Atlantic Records will release a batch of songs at midnight. Three qualifying rounds will be followed by the semi-finals and then the grand finale, where one state or territory will be crowned winner.